Leica C-Lux vs Sony RX1

Let's look a little more closely at the Leica C-Lux and Sony RX1, both Large Sensor Compact digital cameras by rivals Leica and Sony. The image resolution of the C-Lux (20MP) and the RX1 (24MP) is fairly well matched but the C-Lux (1") and RX1 (Full frame) feature different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The C-Lux was introduced 5 years later than the RX1 and that is quite a serious difference as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Large Sensor Compact).

Before diving straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a simple summary of how the C-Lux matches up vs the RX1 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Leica C-Lux & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1. The whole galleries are available at Leica C-Lux Gallery & Sony RX1 Gallery.

For those who are going to carry your camera frequently, you'll need to think about its weight and volume. The Leica C-Lux features physical measurements of 113mm x 67mm x 46mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.8") with a weight of 340 grams (0.75 lbs) and the Sony RX1 has sizing of 113mm x 65mm x 70mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 2.8") and a weight of 482 grams (1.06 lbs).

Check the Leica C-Lux and Sony RX1 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you have attached at that moment. Below is the front view measurement comparison of the C-Lux against the RX1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the C-Lux and RX1 is 85 and 79 respectively.

Quite often, it's hard to imagine the difference between sensor sizing just by checking a spec sheet. The photograph underneath may provide you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the C-Lux and RX1.

As you can see, each of the cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The C-Lux using its tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field harder and the Sony RX1 will give you more detail using its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will let you crop photos a little more aggressively. The newer C-Lux should have an edge in sensor technology.